Antrim Motte: A Medieval Earthwork Steeped in History
Explore Antrim Motte, a medieval earthwork with rich history and legends, nestled within scenic gardens by the Sixmilewater River.
Antrim Motte is a well-preserved medieval earthwork located near Antrim Castle Gardens in Northern Ireland. Dating back to the late 12th century, it was built by John de Courcy or his followers as a defensive fortification. The motte features a spiral path once lined with yew hedges, offering a glimpse into Norman military architecture and local legends. It stands as a unique historical landmark amid the scenic gardens and riverbanks of Antrim.
A brief summary to Antrim Motte
- Antrim, BT41 4AW, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the spiral path up the motte, which offers excellent views of the gardens.
- Visit alongside Antrim Castle Gardens to experience the full historical and natural context of the site.
- Bring a camera to capture the unique blend of medieval earthwork and 18th-century landscaping.
- Children often enjoy exploring the motte’s ruins and imagining the medieval past.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Public Bus
Take a local bus service from Antrim town center to the Antrim Castle Gardens stop, approximately a 10-15 minute ride. Buses run regularly during the day but check schedules in advance. The motte is a short walk from the garden entrance. Single fares cost around £2-£3.
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Car
Driving from Antrim town center, the motte is accessible within a 5-minute drive to the Antrim Castle Gardens car park. Parking is free but limited during peak times. The motte is within walking distance from the parking area.
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Walking
For those staying in Antrim town, a 20-30 minute walk along well-maintained paths leads to the motte and gardens. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for most walkers, including families.
Antrim Motte location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Antrim Motte
Origins and Historical Significance of Antrim Motte
The Antrim Motte is an ancient earthwork dating from the late 12th century, constructed by John de Courcy, the Earl of Ulster, or one of his principal followers. This motte served as a strategic defensive fortification during the Anglo-Norman expansion into Ulster. Positioned close to the eastern boundary of what later became Antrim Castle Gardens, it was part of a network of mottes established to secure Norman control over the region. The site is one of the finest surviving examples of a motte in Northern Ireland, embodying the military and feudal history of the medieval period.Architectural Features and Landscape Integration
The motte is a raised earth mound, originally topped by a wooden or stone fortification, now represented by a grassy platform. In the early 18th century, the motte was transformed into a 'viewing mount' featuring a corkscrew spiral path lined with yew hedges, a landscaping addition by the Massereene family. This blend of medieval military architecture and later garden design creates a unique historical layering. The motte overlooks the scenic Sixmilewater River and is surrounded by the formal gardens and woodland paths of the Antrim Castle estate, enhancing its visual and cultural appeal.Legends and Local Lore
Local legend enriches the motte’s history with tales of a wolfhound that saved Lady Marian Clotworthy, a member of the castle’s historic family, from a wolf attack. This heroic hound is said to have alerted the castle’s defenders to an impending enemy assault, allowing them to repel the attack. The story is commemorated by a carving of the Massereene Wolfhound once displayed on the castle battlements. Such folklore adds a layer of mystique and human interest to the site, connecting visitors to the personal histories entwined with the motte.Decline, Restoration, and Current Status
Following the destruction of Antrim Castle by fire in 1922 and the subsequent decline of the estate, the motte suffered from neglect and soil erosion. By the 1990s, it was in serious need of repair, prompting a conservation effort that included fencing and soil stabilization. These measures have helped preserve the motte’s structure and prevent further deterioration. Today, the motte is accessible within the public gardens, offering visitors a tangible link to the medieval past amid a well-maintained natural and historic setting.Visitor Experience and Educational Value
Visitors to Antrim Motte can explore the spiral path ascending the mound, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding gardens and river. The site is particularly engaging for families and history enthusiasts who appreciate the opportunity to walk through a landscape shaped by centuries of human activity. Informational signage provides context about the motte’s construction, historical role, and associated legends, making it an enriching stop within the broader Antrim Castle Gardens experience.Connection to Antrim’s Broader Heritage
Antrim Motte is part of a larger historical narrative that includes the nearby ruins of Antrim Castle, once a grand Georgian-Gothic mansion. The motte predates the castle and reflects the layered history of the area, from Norman fortifications to 17th-century aristocratic estates. Together, these sites illustrate the evolution of power, architecture, and landscape design in County Antrim, offering visitors a comprehensive glimpse into Northern Ireland’s rich cultural heritage.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
Site of Antrim Castle
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Antrim Castle
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Drop Inn Thrift Shop
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Discover unique treasures and support local causes at Drop Inn Thrift Shop, Antrim’s heart of community charity and sustainability.
Deerpark Bridge
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Historic basalt stone bridge linking Antrim Castle Gardens with the deer park, a serene and picturesque heritage landmark over Six Mile Water.
Asian Mix
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Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Asian Mix, Antrim’s go-to Asian grocery shop in Castle Mall’s vibrant Market Square.
Enchanted Winter Garden
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Clotworthy House
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Antrim Castle Gardens
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The olde sweetie jar
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Antrim Platinum Jubilee Clockwork Garden
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Alexander Irvine Park
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A peaceful memorial park in Antrim honoring missionary Alexander Irvine and pandemic victims, perfect for quiet reflection and cultural heritage.
Viewing platform
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Top Of The Town
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Antrim’s award-winning bar and grill offering fresh local food, lively bars, and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
Antrim Round Tower (State Care Monument)
1.3 km
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Hallmark Cards Ltd
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Essential places to dine
Maddens Bar & Restaurant
0.3 km
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Rococo Wine Bar Antrim
0.4 km
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Ho Wah
0.5 km
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Furama Cantonese Restaurant
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Clubhouse Restaurant & Bar
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Cozy dining with scenic lough views, friendly service, and hearty homemade meals in the heart of Antrim.
Baan Thai
0.6 km
Experience authentic Thai and Chinese flavors in a warm, inviting setting at Baan Thai, Antrim’s beloved culinary gem.
The Boathouse Antrim
1.0 km
Scenic lakeside dining in Antrim offering fresh seafood, gluten-free options, and a modern Irish menu in a relaxed, welcoming setting.
Jakes Cocktail Bar And Grill
1.4 km
Sophisticated cocktails and quality grill cuisine in a welcoming Antrim destination.
Nando's Antrim The Junction
1.8 km
Savor the vibrant flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken at Nando's Antrim The Junction, a lively spot in a bustling retail and leisure hub.
Dunsilly Hotel
3.1 km
Discover comfort and charm at Dunsilly Hotel in Antrim - your perfect retreat with exceptional dining options.
McLarnons Ramble Inn
5.3 km
A rustic and welcoming pub in Antrim offering hearty meals, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere with a quirky charm.
Mill Race Restaurant
5.7 km
AA Rosette–awarded Modern Irish fine dining beside the River Six Mile Water, with seasonal menus, afternoon tea, and Sunday carvery in a historic Antrim hotel.
Ellie Mays
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The Rabbit Hotel & Retreat
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Sleepy Hollow
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Restore Antrim
0.2 km
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DV8
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New Look
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Trendy fashion for all ages in the heart of Antrim’s Castle Mall shopping centre.
Hope and a Future
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Discover unique treasures and support local charities at Hope and a Future, Antrim's beloved charity shop and thrift store.
Castle Mall
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Explore Castle Mall in Antrim for an unforgettable shopping experience, blending local charm with modern retail and entertainment.
Cardfactory
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Baraka Urban
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Poundstretcher
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Antrim ECig
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Simply Gifted
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Vivo The Paper Shop
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Nanabelle's Gifts
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The Vintage Wine Merchants
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Wallace's
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Banana Bookshop
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Barney's
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Massereene House
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Kneebreakers
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The Anchor Bar
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The Steeple Inn
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Alfies cafe
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The Cova Inn
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Rubys + The Back Shed
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Railway Bar
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Milk cloud
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McKenna Bar
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Marrions Bar & Off Licence
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J O'Kane
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Laverty's
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Heffron's Bar
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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ORIGIN Nightclub & Bar Ballymena
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Club Honey
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Boombox Belfast
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Kremlin
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Ulster Sports Club
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Thompsons Garage
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Cabaret Supper Club
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
